The goal of the gathering was to support, connect, and build capacity of food networks to contribute to the implementation of Minnesota Food Charter strategies. The “unconference” was kept small. This allowed attendees to enter into deep, meaningful, and vulnerable conversations. Conversation topics included collaboration, authentic community engagement, race, and justice.

Almost 80 food network leaders from across Minnesota attended the Convening. Attendees met new people and learned about work taking place in different “silos” of the food system. Attendees were encouraged to break down the silos. As as one presenter put it, to start working in “spheres.” Spheres have round edges. They roll around, bump into others, and can even merge. These mobile, malleable spheres (or bubbles) were an apt metaphor for the atmosphere of the convening. Throughout the convening, attendees were encouraged to:

Get outside their comfort zone

Meet new people

Embrace new and sometimes uncomfortable ideas

Have fun

Literally, blow bubbles together

This two-day convening was highly interactive and participatory. It featured keynotes, breakout sessions, and structured networking.

Detailed agenda

Goal: Support, connect and build capacity of food networks to contribute to the implementation of MN Food Charter strategies.

Enjoy refreshments while discussing with other food policy council leaders about how to build action-oriented relationships with local policy makers, how to craft effective messaging, and best practices for engaging members as well as the community.

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There are a number of ways you can get or stay connected to the work of food networks across Minnesota.

Funding for this convening is provided in part by the Center for Prevention at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota and Minnesota Food Charter Network. Thank you to everyone who attended, planned, executed, and otherwise made the event a success. We could have never done it alone!